* Responsum of Rabbi Yishmael HaKohen regarding the inheritance of the Momigliano family, written on December 6, 1772.
[2] leaves. Paper. 28×20 cm. Written on both sides. Italian handwriting. Autograph.
Rabbi Yishmael HaKohen of Modena was the rabbi of Modena and one of the greatest Italian rabbis of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century. He is known for his book of responsa Zera Emet. His older brother, Rabbi David HaKohen, was Rabbi of Modena, and he would deliver sermons in the city’s yeshivot during his brothers lifetime. Following his brother’s death in 1782, the community appointed Rabbi Yishmael as his successor. He served as rabbi for 30 years until his death. He also served as head of the city’s yeshivot. He was in contact with the Chida, and corresponded with him on matters of halachah.
Napoleon sent him the 12 questions which he posed to Jewish sages and invited him to the Assembly of Notables and to the “Sanhedrin” gathering. He could not attend due to his advanced age, but he responded to the questions, and Rabbi Yosef David Sinzheim, the president of the “Sanhedrin of Paris,” wrote the Sanhedrin’s decrees in accordance with his response.
Thick paper. Clear handwriting. Very fine condition.
* Responsum of Rabbi Mazal Tov of Modena which was written in 1817 and sent to Emmanuel Castelnovo, Padova, who is Rabbi Menachem Azariah Meir Castelnovo, the author of Misgeret HaShulchan on Yoreh Deah (Livorno, [1840]).
[2] leaves. 24×18 cm. Autograph. Written on 3 pages. Italian handwriting.
Rabbi Mazal Tov of Modena was the disciple of Rabbi Yishmael HaKohen and succeeded him as rabbi of Modena. He participated in the Assembly of Notables (Sanhedrin) in Paris in 1806. He also wrote Sha’arei Dimah and more.
Written on thin paper, holes were formed in a few places due to the acidity of the ink. Poor condition.